November 16, 2025

The melody of the prelude is interesting, as the music lists the tune name as "Schonster Herr Jesu", which is 384 in our hymnal, but the melody is much closer-- very recognizable--to 383 (tune name, "St. Elizabeth"), the tune we all know for the text "Fairest Lord Jesus, Ruler of all nature" (384 uses the same text).  Listen and see what you think!   The setting is by David Cherwien, contemporary American and artistic director of the National Lutheran Choir.

Our opening hymn is the first 3 verses of "Praise the Spirit in creation" (506), the well known hymn by Christopher Dearnley (1930-2000), known for his work at St. Paul's Cathedral, London. The Gospel hymn reverts to the 18th century and is the simple but beautiful "Blest are the pure in heart", 656.

Our anthem, "Jesus, Source of My Salvation", uses a tune from the 17th century, by Knorr von Rosenroth, is harmonized by J.S.Bach, and is arranged for 3 parts by Elwood Coggin-- and then there is the text by E. C. Homburg (1605-1681) which was altered by J. C. Jacobi (1670-1750)!  

Communion hymns are 314, 'Humbly I adore Thee"-- check out the hymnal notes! -- and 552, "Fight the good fight".

Closing we will sing "Judge eternal, throned in splendor", 596, a 17th century hymn you know well!

The postlude is by one of America's earliest composers, James Lyon (1735-1794), who was also a Presbyterian minister!  The piece is entitled "Temple March".